Bariatrics/Weight Management

Weight Loss Options

Although diet, exercise, behavior therapy and anti-obesity drugs are usually first-choice weight loss treatments, surgery can be the best option for some patients. Weight loss surgery generally results in greater weight loss than conventional treatments, leads to better quality of life and less obesity-related diseases.

To get the answers you need, you can rely on the expertise of the Bariatrics team at BayCare. Our program is a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to help you find the best weight loss options for you.

Bariatrics is the branch of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention, and treatment of obesity. Dieting, exercise, weight loss behavioral therapy, drug therapy and weight loss surgery are all components of the bariatric field. Obesity is a rising medical issue that affects many Americans and causes serious health issues and diseases, including:

Heart disease

High blood pressure

Diabetes

Many types of cancer

Asthma

Sleep apnea

Musculoskeletal problems

Decreased lifespan

To learn more about the bariatric program at Mease Dunedin Hospital, please call (855) 314-8350. To learn more about surgical and non-surgical weight loss options, register for a free in-person or online information session.

Body Mass Index

Individuals with a BMI (Body Mass Index) exceeding a healthy range have a much greater risk of medical issues. Less than half of the adults in the United States have a healthy BMI. For adults, an ideal range is between 18.5 and 24.9. A BMI over 24.9 is considered overweight. There are five BMI ranges:

Support Groups

Support groups can increase the chances of short and long-term success following bariatric surgery. At Mease Dunedin Hospital, you will find assistance throughout your journey to ensure your continued success. Regardless of whether you are just considering weight-loss surgery or have already had surgery, you are welcome to attend the following two support group sessions, which include not only nutritional and physical health, but also emotional, mental, psychological and spiritual well-being. Spouses and significant others are also encouraged to attend.

The Mease Dunedin bariatric support group meets the 1st Tuesday of every month at 6pm in Meeting Room 2.

The Morton Plant North Bay Hospital bariatric support group meets the 4th Tuesday of every month at 6pm in the Bekesh Education and Conference Center.

For more information on joining our support group meetings, call (727) 734-6879.